CONSULTANT SURGEON
Since 2013
ABOUT
Surgeon. Educator. Advocate.
Dr Alex Popadich is a specialist breast and general surgeon based in Wellington — and a passionate advocate for women truly understanding their own health.
10+
Years consultant
surgeon, Wellington
FRACS
Years consultant
surgeon, Wellington
2
Specialist
clinical practices
"Every woman deserves to be heard, understood, and cared for — not just treated."
HER STORY
From Croatia to Wellington's operating theatre.
Dr Aleksandra (Alex) Popadich grew up in Pula, Croatia. In 1995 her family moved to New Zealand — a significant transition that shaped her values of empathy, resilience, and the courage to start over.
She completed her medical training at the University of Otago and her surgical fellowship across New Zealand, before sub-specialising in Breast and Endocrine Surgery in Sydney — a period that shaped how she thinks about both the technical and deeply human dimensions of breast cancer care.
Since 2013, she has been practising as a consultant breast and endocrine surgeon in the Wellington and Hutt region, running two specialist private practices and contributing to GP education and clinical governance at Boulcott Hospital.
Her particular expertise lies at the intersection of breast cancer and hormonal health — an area few specialists can address with equal depth. She also publishes weekly educational videos and articles, believing that informed patients make better decisions and have better conversations with their clinical team.
MBChB, University of Otago
FRACS — Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons
Sub-speciality training, Breast & Endocrine Surgery, Sydney
Consultant Surgeon, Wellington & Hutt, since 2013
Wellington Breast Multidisciplinary Meeting participant
GP Education & Clinical Governance, Boulcott Hospital
Surgical educator and YouTube health communicator
"Women deserve to understand what is happening in their own bodies. Too much of medicine is still communicated in ways that exclude the very people it is meant to help."
DR ALEKSANDRA POPADICH, BREAST & GENERAL SURGEON
WHAT DRIVES US
A practice built on respect, clarity, and evidence.
We believe the best surgical care is inseparable from genuine human connection. These are the principles that shape every interaction at My Breast Care Centre.
01
Whole-woman care
Breast health, hormonal health, and overall wellbeing are not separate chapters. We treat you as a whole person — not a diagnosis. Every consultation considers the full picture of who you are and what matters to you.
04
You are in control
There is no single right answer in surgical care. We present all your options, explain what each involves, and support whatever decision you make. Second opinions are not just permitted — they are encouraged.
02
Clarity over jargon
You will leave every appointment understanding exactly what was found, what your options are, and what happens next. We speak plainly, take questions seriously, and never rush you out the door before you feel ready.
05
Your whānau matter
A diagnosis affects everyone who loves you. Your family and support people are always welcome in the consultation room. We extend our care to the people around you — because that is what good care looks like.
03
Evidence, always
Every clinical decision is grounded in the best available evidence. Dr Alex regularly attends UK breast surgery conferences and stays at the leading edge of research — so that the care you receive reflects today's best practice, not yesterday's habit.
06
Small team, big heart
We are a small, close-knit team — entirely by design. We know your name. We remember your story. From your very first phone call to your last follow-up, you will be met with warmth and genuine care.
OUR TEAM
The people behind your care.
We are more than a clinic. We are a team built around you — united by a single belief: that every woman who comes to us deserves to feel safe, informed, and genuinely cared for.
Lisa Holmes
BREAST CARE NURSE SPECIALIST
Lisa is the heartbeat of our nursing team — and for many patients, the voice that makes everything feel a little more manageable. With over 15 years of specialist breast care nursing experience, Lisa joined Dr Popadich's team at Boulcott Breast Care in 2020.
She brings a deeply holistic approach to everything she does — believing that truly good nursing care means caring for the whole woman, not just her diagnosis. Lisa is your dedicated point of contact throughout your care — from your first appointment through to recovery.
"A new breast diagnosis can feel overwhelming — for you and for the people who love you. I am here to walk alongside you, help you understand your options, and make sure you never feel alone in this."
Originally from the UK, Lisa has proudly called New Zealand home for nearly 30 years. Outside of work you'll find her on the beach, out on a local bush walk, or visiting her two beloved grandsons in Hawke's Bay.
Dr Aleksandra Popadich
BREAST & GENERAL SURGEON · MENOPAUSE SPECIALIST · FRACS
I became a surgeon because I wanted to make a real difference in people's lives — and every day in this work reminds me why. I am a specialist breast and general surgeon and menopause specialist, based in Lower Hutt and Wellington.
I have devoted my career to subspecialist breast cancer surgery, and in recent years have expanded my focus to include menopause and women's wellbeing. This wasn't a detour — it was an inevitability. The women I see in clinic have taught me that breast health, hormonal health, and overall wellbeing are not separate chapters. They are part of the same story.
"When you come to see me, you will be listened to. You will be taken seriously. And you will leave with a clear understanding of your options and a team walking alongside you."
Linda Cunningham
PRACTICE ADMINISTRATOR
If you have called the clinic, sent an email, or wondered what happens next — chances are Linda is the person who made it all happen. Linda has been part of the Boulcott Hospital and Specialist Centre family for over 30 years, and joined Dr Popadich's team in 2024.
She is the calm, capable presence behind the scenes who ensures every patient feels welcomed, organised, and cared for from the very first contact. Linda genuinely believes in what this team does, and why it matters.
"People's health is everything. I feel privileged to play even a small part in supporting our patients. Dr Popadich always goes above and beyond — and it is an absolute pleasure to be part of that. Please don't hesitate to reach out to me at any time."
Linda is your first point of contact for appointments, referrals, and any questions about your care.